Pope Leo XIV interprets Russia's war against Ukraine in terms of European security and stresses the necessity of honoring Ukraine's Constitution when considering any "peace plans."
This statement was made by the Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC), Sviatoslav, during a meeting with Ukrinform staff.
He noted that the current Pope is relatively young in terms of his experience in episcopal ministry and comes from a unique background, both of which significantly influence his perspective on international matters.
"Currently, we have a Pope who views Ukraine in the context of the European situation. His perspective, and therefore the current international position of the Holy See, is unmistakably European," emphasized His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
He highlighted Pope Leo XIV's remarks following his meeting with the President of Ukraine, which took place amid renewed attempts to create so-called "peace scenarios" amid external pressure on Ukraine. According to the head of the UGCC, the Pope made his principled position clear regarding Europe's role in negotiations.
"The Pope clearly stated that this conflict is a war in Europe, and Europe needs to play a crucial role in the negotiations. It is not possible to discuss Ukraine's situation solely between the United States and Russia. This clear position has not been heard in quite some time," he said.
His Beatitude Sviatoslav stressed that this stance from the Holy See sends an important message to the international community, affirming Ukraine's status as an integral part of Europe.
"This shows a deeper understanding that without Ukraine, there can be no secure future for Europe. The fate of European security is being determined here," he added.
The head of the UGCC also pointed out that Pope Leo XIV, for the first time since the onset of Russian aggression, publicly mentioned the Constitution of Ukraine in the context of possible peace agreements.
"The Pope emphasized that any 'peace plan' for Ukraine is impossible without respecting Ukraine's Constitution. This statement serves as a reminder of our country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and strategic direction," he emphasized.
According to His Beatitude Sviatoslav, this position is balanced and professional, as it reminds international partners of the legal boundaries of any compromises and the complexity involved in amending Ukraine's Basic Law.
The third important point the head of the UGCC raised is Pope Leo XIV's institutional approach to forming the Holy See's stance. "This is a Pope who does not make conclusions based on emotions or superficial impressions. His position is based on the work of an analytical and intellectual team that thoroughly understands the situation," he emphasized.
The head of the UGCC stressed that the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church is part of this dialogue and has the opportunity to convey accurate information about the war and its consequences to the Holy See.
"We feel genuinely heard and listened to. Our testimony is being considered, assuring us that the truth about Ukraine is not overlooked," concluded His Beatitude Sviatoslav.